The best defense against ransomware is a solid backup strategy. If your files are properly backed up, ransomware loses its power. Here’s the 3-2-1 backup rule and implementation guide for 2025.

The 3-2-1 Rule

3 copies of your data (original + 2 backups)
2 different storage media (e.g., external hard drive + cloud)
1 copy stored offsite (cloud or different location)

Backup Solutions

• Cloud backup: Backblaze, Carbonite, IDrive, Norton Cloud Backup
• External hard drive: WD My Passport, Seagate Backup Plus
• NAS: Synology, QNAP for home network backup
• Built-in: Windows File History, macOS Time Machine

Antivirus With Built-in Backup

Norton 360 includes 75GB cloud backup, making it an excellent choice for users who want antivirus and backup in one package.

Testing Your Backups

Regularly verify your backups work! Many users discover their backups are corrupted when they actually need them. Test restore at least once per quarter.